Death Toll Rises on the Fourth Anniversary of the Egyptian Revolution

Death Toll Rises on the Fourth Anniversary of the Egyptian RevolutionBy Manar Ammar

In Egypt on Sunday, marking the fourth anniversary of the January 25 revolution, security forces attacked and killed 23 protesters, and injured more than 95 according to a Ministry of Interior statement. One policeman was also killed in clashes. Officials in the ministry have previously said they will not tolerate any protests, and all celebration marking the revolution, was cancelled after the death of the Saudi King Abdullah. Among the injured, were a number of journalists, who were covering the protests. An undisclosed number of reporters have been arrested.

Minister of Interior Mohamed Ibrahim, showed defiance during a press conference on Monday, giving thanks to the police for how they handled protests. "Thank you to my forces that were on street, without them there would have been a much graver situation, thanks to the armed forces for their support, and thanks to media for their excellent coverage." Ibrahim said addressing journalists.

The Association of Freedom of Thought and Expression (AFTE), said that the day saw large numbers of arbitrary arrests, while MOI spokesman said that around 150 people have been arrested. The AFTE said in a statement real added on Sunday that security forces used rubber bullets as well as live rounds of ammo to halt protests.

As the police were flexing their muscles in the capital Cairo and in other cities across the country, Alaa Mubarak and Gamal Mubarak have been released from prison on Monday, following an overturn of all convictions against them, while their father, dictator Hosni Mubarak remains in a military hospital, in a private suite overlooking the Nile.

Last year, Egyptian security forces banned CODEPINK co-founder Medea Benjamin from entering the country. Airport security manhandled Benjamin and dislocated her shoulder, before she was deported back to the U.S. The incident drew international attention to the rough treatment of opposition figures and the abuse blackout practiced by Egyptian authorities.